Atlanta Daily World Digital Edition 5-9-13

Atlanta Daily World Digital Edition 5-9-13

ADW Digital Edition 5-9-13

ADW
ATLANTA DAILY WORLD
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Volume 85 Issue 40
Coke Gives $1 Million to NCNW Page 3
Comfort Food for the Soul Page 6
The Watsons Go to Birmingham Page 8
‘Stop and Frisk’ lawsuit Could Have Wide-Ranging Affects
By Dion RABouin ADW Digital Editor
May 9 - 15, 2013
Spelman Valedictorians Page 12
Honoring Mother has Ancient Roots
By CHARlotte Roy ADW Managing Editor The history of Mother’s Day is an ancient one. It is neither a recent phenomenon, as many people believe it to be, nor is it the creation of greeting card and gift marketers, as many cynics assume. Mother’s Day celebrations are first said to have taken place thousands of years ago. The ancient Greeks celebrated their annual spring festival in honor of Rhea, the mother of many gods and goddesses in the Greek mythology. Ancient Romans celebrated a spring festival by the name of Hilaria in honor of Cybele, a mother goddess, some 250 years before Christ was born. Early Christians celebrated this festival on the fourth Sunday in Lent in honor of Mary, mother of Christ. In England the holiday was expanded to include all mothers and was called Mothering Sunday. In the U.S. the efforts of 19th century writer and poet Julia Ward Howe and early 1900’s activist Anna Jarvis are recognized for having started the tradition. Jarvis lobbied
people in power and in Congress aggressively for a day of recognition for mothers. As a result, on May 8, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a Joint Resolution designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day. Since then Mother's Day has flourished. In fact, on the second Sunday of May telephone companies used to record their highest traffic, as sons and daughters everywhere called to honor and to express appreciation of their mothers, and it has become the most popular day of the year to dine out. The following is a list of Atlanta restaurants that would like to honor your mother with something good to eat! Take a look: Sweet Georgia's Juke Joint: Guests will enjoy live music and delicious Southern fare including Shrimp and Grits and Crab Cake Benedict. The live music kicks off at noon with Rod Harris Jr. and continues with The Bob Page Trio
As the Floyd v. New York class-action lawsuit known as “Stop and Frisk” begins to wind down after more than 30 days of testimony, citizens throughout New York City are waiting with baited breath for the outcome. It has attracted far fewer headlines in Atlanta, but the final resolution of the case could affect the way police do business in every city in the country, particularly in communities of color, where police could assert the right to search Black and Latino youth simply for being Black and Latino youth. The plaintiffs in Floyd argue that “stop and frisk” is nothing more than racial profiling and the raw data behind the case is almost impossible to argue. Of the 530,000 people stopped and searched in New York in 2012, only 10 percent were White, and 89 percent of the stops did not lead to an arrest or even a citation, according to the police department’s own data. The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) studied the data and found that Black and Latino men between the ages of 14 and 24 make up just 4.7 percent of the city's population but accounted for 41 percent of stop and frisks in 2011. The city’s stop and frisk program has been in place for years, but under recently retired Police Chief Joseph Esposito, who took over the department’s top post in 2000, the NYPD's stops have increased by 600 percent.
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Coke Donates $1 Million to nCnW in Honor of ingrid Saunders Jones
By M. AlexiS SCott www.adwnews.com Calling Ingrid Saunders Jones “the heart and soul of the company,” Muhtar Kent, CEO of The Coca-Cola Company announced the donation of $1 million in her honor to the historic National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). Jones, who retires next month from Coke after 31 years, was elected chair of the NCNW last summer. At the gala celebration on May 1 at the Fernbank Museum, Jones said “turning the nonprofit around” will be her focus after her career at Coke.
NEWS
May 9 - 15, 2013
Honoring Mother has Ancient Roots
“I claim it here tonight,” Jones said after receiving many worked for former Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson before tributes from colleagues and the community, including Atlanta joining The Coca-Cola Company. And after he was elected Mayor Kasim Reed. mayor in 2009, Reed said he met with Jones, who offered her She expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the gift in support and counsel. her honor for the organization founded by Mary McCloud “She said I’ll probably be the last mayor that she gets to Bethune and headed for years by the late Dorothy Height. train,” Reed said with a smile. The surprise announcement and tributes brought Jones to In addition, several of the Morehouse College students that tears. She said she had “practiced” not crying, but was unable Jones has mentored stood in celebration of her work with to contain herself as she listened to speaker after speaker say them. She has worked with the student leadership development how much she has meant to them personally and to the larger program since its inception. community. Alicia Phillip, president of The Community Foundation, Beside Kent, both of her two direct bosses sang her praises. spoke on behalf of the “elders,” several women who have Retired Coke executive Carl Ware talked about working with worked with Jones over the years in philanthropic activities her at City Hall when he was president of the Atlanta City here and around the nation. Former Depart of Labor Secretary Council and how he was thrilled that she accepted his offer to and Coca-Cola Diversity Council Chief Alexis Herman also come work for him in 1982 after he was hired by The praised Jones for her skills at pulling people together for a Coca-Cola Company. common good. Alexander Cummings, chief administrative officer of Coke A native of Detroit, Jones came to Atlanta in a fellowship and her current boss, said he was grateful for the work that program to work at City Hall during Maynard Jackson’s first reputation that Jones has given the company worldwide. term as mayor. Jackson was elected the first African-American In addition, Helen Smith Price, spoke on behalf of Jones’ team mayor of a major Southern city in 1973. She began her career at Coke. She brought a smile of recognition to many faces as a teacher and used her skills in government and corporate when she talked about Jones’ attention to detail. America to make the world her classroom. “To say she is a detail person is an understatement,” Price Muhtar Kent (from left), CEO of The Coca-Cola said. “She not only wants the Company, shows a proclamation that was issued in details, but she wants the dehonor of Ingrid Saunders Jones’s retirement after tails behind the details.” 31 years from the company, as she, Alexis Herman, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed Page 1 Alexander Cummings and Carl Ware look on. The In spite of massive and ever mounting For those over the age of 17, the pattern of praised Jones for her proclamation and a $1 million gift from Coke to the evidence, the NYPD has insisted that stop arrests is the same. In 2013, APD reported dedication to the city, as well National Council of Negro Women were among the and frisk does not constitute racial profiling arresting 6,242 Black men and women 17 or as to The Coca-Cola Company. many tributes made at the gala reception on May 1 because it targets communities based on older. There were a reported 1,000 Whites He noted that Jones had at Fernbank Museum. where crimes are happening, not race. arrested during that time – 84 percent less. "Who's doing those shootings?” said The trend existed throughout 2012. More Esposito during his testimony in the Floyd than six times as many Blacks (28,238) than trial. “It's young men of color in their late Whites (4,622) were arrested by APD, Page 1 teens, early 20s." according to the department’s publicly adults and $12 children 10 and under. Dinner at 3:30 p.m. and The Soul Chargers round out Kelly, Esposito and New York Mayor accessible arrest files. The statistic is will be served from 5 p.m. from 9 p.m. with the the evening at 7 p.m. 200 Peachtree Street Michael Bloomberg, who are all named as particularly conspicuous considering African regular dinner menu and Sunday specials! 475 Atlanta 30303 | sweetgeorgiasjukejoint.com | defendants in the Floyd case, have argued Americans make up only 54 percent of the Bill Kennedy Way SE Atlanta. 30316 | 404-230-JUKE that stop and frisk is getting guns off the City of Atlanta’s population. theshedatglenwood.com | 404-835-4363 Blt Steak Atlanta: Chef Cyrille Holota Even in Atlanta, where the police streets and saving lives in the city, and they’ve Canoe: Chef Carvel Grant Gould has has prepared an a la carte menu with breakfast department’s manual states, “Officers must got the numbers to back up their positions. prepared a special menu with unique dishes as and lunch favorites, including a Bacon & Chive have a particularized and objective basis for From 2000 to 2009 New York’s homicide well as traditional brunch favorites to treat your Waffle with Slow Roasted Chicken and Eggs suspecting [a] particular person detained of rate went from 8.9 murders per 100,000 mother on this special day! Reservations are "W" with spinach, crabmeat and a criminal activity,” young Black men being people to 5.8 per 100,000, and in 2012 New encouraged! 4199 Paces Ferry Rd. NW. Atlanta. York recorded 414 homicides, the city’s cayenne-lemon hollandaise sauce. Brunch stopped for something like “fitting the 30339 | canoeatl.com | 770-432-2663 will be served from 10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., description” isn’t uncommon, according to lowest murder total since 1963. livingston Restaurant + Bar: From reservations are recommended. some of the city’s activists. In 2011, 770 guns were recovered across W Atlanta - Downtown, 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. for a festive spring-inspired “It is something that police have been the city during frisks. That amounts to a 30 buffet, featuring Mom’s favorites created by Atlanta 30308 e2hospitality.com/blt-steakdoing all the time,” said Mawuli Mel Davis, percent increase over 2003, when 594 guns Chef Zeb! Enjoy a spectacular carving station, atlanta | 404-577-7601 a criminal defense lawyer who works with were recovered. Esposito has asserted during dessert display, and Bloody Mary and mimosa the Shed At Glenwood: Mother's Day young people of color in Atlanta. “They’ve the trial that crime in New York is down 40 specials. The buffet is $35 for adults, $15 for Brunch Buffet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. including been profiling young African-American and percent in the last 12 years and 80 percent in children ages 6-12 and complimentary for all your favorites like French Toast with Maple Hispanic males, and they have found a way to the last 20. children 5 & under. Georgia Pecans and Roasted Potato Hash with pull people over and to stop them and to pat Bloomberg has also touted a murder rate Reservations are strongly recommended. Spring Onions and Peppers. Brunch is $25 for them down and try to arrest them and that he says has been cut in half since he took Georgian Terrace Hotel, 659 whatnot.” over as mayor. Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta APD spokesman Carlos A. Campos would “I think the effectiveness of the program is 30308 | livingstonatlanta.com | not comment on the department’s stance on shown in the fact that under the Bloomberg Published weekly at 404-897-5000 “stop and frisk,” but he says that it’s the decade, we’ve had a 51 percent decrease in 3485 N. Desert Drive Suite 2109 one eared Stag: Enjoy department’s policy to adhere to the code of murders in the city,” he told CBS News in Atlanta, Georgia 30344-8125. one of Atlanta’s best and most the police handbook, which states that March. Periodicals Postage Paid at Atlanta Mailing Offices. unique brunch experiences at Though the Atlanta Police Department is officers may stop or detain an individual only Publication Number 017255 One Eared Stag in the heart of not required to submit records on stops or the when “they have articulable facts that lead POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Atlanta Daily World, Inman Park. Chef Robert people it detains, the arrest record of Blacks in them to believe criminal activity is occurring.” 3485 N. Desert Drive Suite 2109 Atlanta, Georgia 30344-8125. Phalen will create a creative, the city speaks to much the same racial divide While it’s hardly an “apples to apples” Subscriptions: seasonal brunch beginning at as New York’s. comparison, reductions in crime surpassing One Year: $52 11 am. Reservations are A grand total of five White youths under those seen in New York were recorded in Two Years: $85 strongly recommended. 1029 age 16 were arrested by the Atlanta Police Atlanta during the same period without the Forms of Payment: Check, Money Order, Edgewood Ave. NE Atlanta. Department from January to March of this “stop and frisk” policy. American Express, MasterCard, VISA 30307 | oneearedstag.com | year. During that same period there were 209 For more details on this story visit 404-525-4479 arrests of Black youths in the same age group. www.atlantadailyworld.com.
‘Stop and Frisk’ lawsuit
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COMMUNITY May 9 - 15, 2013 Jaylyn neal is CAu ‘Man of the year’ ‘Searching for our Sons &
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Daughters’ Debuts on DCtV
By ADW Staff DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis has announced the debut of DeKalb County Television’s (DCTV Channel 23) newest feature, “Searching for Our Sons & Daughters: Finding DeKalb County’s Missing.” The segment spotlights missing persons cases via public service announcements and news segments, and reaches out to family members, friends and officials to shed more light on the person and the circumstances of his or her disappearance. DCTV’s first feature in this series highlights the heartbreaking, yet hopeful story of Senella Watson and her search for her adult son who had been missing since November 2012. Watson now credits DCTV’s feature with helping to successfully find her son. To view Senella Watson’s story, visit http://youtu.be/AjSrYeZNiPc. “Stories of our missing residents offer profound insights and hope for a positive reunion,” said CEO Ellis. “With this new DCTV feature, we have an opportunity to reunite DeKalb County families.” In addition to disseminating important, timely information that could help reunite a missing person with their loved ones, the segment also helps DCTV partner the reunited individual with local and state-wide services when needed. “The purpose of this feature is to remind viewers that missing persons reports are not isolated cases which do not affect us. Instead, the people featured are the actual mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons and daughters of DeKalb County,” said segment creator and
DCTV Director Diamond Miller Lewis. The features are made available through a partnership between DCTV and the DeKalb County Police Department. “I look forward to working collaboratively with DCTV to help DeKalb families locate their missing family members,” said Police Chief Cedric Alexander. Citizens with information about a missing persons case are encouraged to call the Special Victims Unit at 770-724-7710. DCTV’s full programming roster is available on Comcast Cable Channel 23 in DeKalb County, online through a live video stream and on demand at www.dekalbcountyga.gov/dctv and on the county’s YouTube channel “DeKalbCountyGOV.” DCTV serves as the sole media source of DeKalb County government events and programs, working to inform more than 700,000 residents in DeKalb.
During the recent “Man of the Year” scholarship competition and pageant at Clark Atlanta University, Jaylyn Neal (center), a sophomore TV and film major from Prince George’s County, Md., was named “Man of the Year.” First attendant (right) is James Honore, a sophomore dual degree chemistry and chemical engineering major from Houston, and second attendant is Leon Valentine, a sophomore public relations major from Washington, D.C. In response to recent campus shootings across the country, the contestants embraced “The Campaign To Keep Guns Off Campus” and collected signatures in support of a safer college environment.
Fulton County to ‘unleash the Power of Age’
Special to ADW
Fulton County kicked off Older Americans Month along with the rest of the nation to celebrate the value of older Americans on May 1. Fulton County Commissioners issued a proclamation that recognized seniors for their value as continuing economic and social contributors to society. Every year since 1963, May has been a month to appreciate and celebrate the vitality and aspirations of older adults and their contributions to our communities. The theme for Older Americans Month 2013 is “Unleash the Power of Age.” Older Americans are productive, active, and influential members of society, sharing essential talents, wisdom, and life experience with their families, friends, and neighbors. The Fulton County celebration continued on Friday, May 3 at noon in the Helene S. Mills Senior Multipurpose Facility. Senior volunteers were honored for their contributions to programs and services provided by the Mills Facility. Mills is located at 515 John Wesley Dobbs Avenue in Atlanta. Mills was the first of four Senior Multipurpose Facility Volunteer Appreciation Luncheons that acknowledge senior participants for their generous sharing of their time to assist with senior programs and activities in the multipurpose facilities. The H.J.C. Bowden Senior Multipurpose Facility honors a top volunteer on Thursday, May 9, for serving 2,500 hours during 2012. The third Volunteer Recognition Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, May 14, at 11 a.m. at the Harriett G. Darnell Senior Multipurpose Facility at 677 Fairburn Road in Atlanta. The final Volunteer Recognition Luncheon will be held on Friday, May 24, at noon in the Dorothy C. Benson Senior Multipurpose Complex at 6500 Vernon Woods Drive in Sandy Springs. All of the luncheons are for senior multipurpose facility volunteers, and they are by invitation only. To find the full calendar of events with dates, times and locations for all four facilities, citizens should visit www.fultoncountyga.gov or call the Fulton County STARline at 404-613-6000.
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By ADW Staff Honored by the White House as one of the Top 100 Entrepreneurs under 30, author, social entrepreneur and “chief popsicle” of Feverish Ice Cream & Gourmet Pops Felecia Hatcher will keynote the Youth Entrepreneurs® Georgia’s Dare to Dream event on May 10. Dare to Dream is an event for Youth Entrepreneurs Georgia students that marks the successful completion of the year-long classroom portion of the program. Dare to Dream aims to inspire students to utilize creativity, follow their passions, and learn about the importance of making good choices in their lives. Dare to Dream will offer workshops to approximately 160 students in the Youth Entrepreneurs Georgia program including: Business Etiquette, Managing Electronic Communications, Dining Etiquette, Dressing for Success, and a Business Expo. Participating companies and organizations such as The Coca-Cola Company, Oglethorpe Power, Fifth Third Bank, and University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business will offer information and guidance. The event will be held Friday, May 10, from 10:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Coca-Cola
entrepreneur Felecia Hatcher Survey: Atlanta is Friendly Keynotes ‘Dare to Dream’ For teens to Small Businesses
By ADW Staff Atlanta ranked among one of the most “small business-friendly” cities in the country, according to a new study conducted by Thumbtack.com, in partnership with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. The Thumbtack.com Small Business Friendliness Survey is the only survey to obtain data from an extensive, nationwide universe of job creators and entrepreneurs in order to determine the most business-friendly locations. While there are various “business climate rankings” that rate locations as good or bad for business, there are no others that draw upon considerable data from small business owners themselves. “For the second year, Atlanta ranked among the best cities in terms of its support of small business,” said Sander Daniels, co-founder of Thumbtack.com. “Our research notes the importance of clear and consistent regulations in creating a friendly environment for entrepreneurs, and this is exactly where Atlanta delivers.” Some of the key findings for Atlanta -- and Georgia generally -- include: • Small businesses ranked Atlanta among the best cities in the nation, giving the city an 'A-' overall. • Georgia ranked among the 10 best states for small businesses. Georgia also earned an 'A' grade for the ease of hiring additional employees in the state. • Small businesses rated Atlanta's regulatory
BUSINESS
May 9 - 15, 2013
World Headquarters, located at One Coca-Cola Plaza, 310 North Avenue Northwest, Atlanta, GA 30313. Youth Entrepreneurs Georgia (YEG), formerly Youth Entrepreneurs of Atlanta, is a business program hosted in metro Atlanta high schools that teaches students free-enterprise fundamentals through hands-on learning activities, culminating in the writing and presentation of a workable business plan. The goal of the program is to provide students with practical business knowledge and experience, encourage an entrepreneurial way of thinking and promote higher education, all of which culminate into productive citizenry. To learn more visit the organization’s website, http://www.gp.com/yeatl/ .
By Annie loWRey NEW York TiMES Millions of Americans suffered a loss of wealth during the recession and the sluggish recovery that followed. But the last half-decade has proved far worse for Black and Hispanic families than for White families, starkly widening the already large gulf in wealth between White Americans and most minorities, according to a new study from the Urban Institute. “It was already dismal,” Darrick Hamilton, a professor at the New School in New York, said of the wealth gap between Black and White households. “It got even worse.” Given the dynamics of the housing recovery and the rebound in the stock market, the wealth gap might still be growing, experts said, further dimming the prospects for economic advancement for current and future generations of Americans from minority groups. The Urban Institute study found that the racial wealth gap expanded during the recession, even as the income gap between White Americans and non-White Americans remained stable. As of 2010, White families, on average, earned about $2 for every $1 that Black and Hispanic families earned, a ratio that has remained roughly constant for the last 30 years. But when it comes to wealth — as measured by assets, like cash savings, homes and retirement accounts, minus debts, like mortgages and credit card balances — White
Black, Hispanic Families feel Sting of Wealth Gap
systems very favorable. The city earned a pair of 'A-' grades for its labor regulations and its zoning requirements. • Nationally, professional licensing requirements were more important to small business owners than taxes in determining a state’s overall business-friendliness, confirming the findings from last year’s study. • African-American and Hispanic small business owners were more likely than their White counterparts to encourage others to start a new business. • The top ranking cities overall were Austin, Virginia Beach-Norfolk, Houston, Colorado Springs and San Antonio. The lowest rated were Los Angeles, San Diego, Cincinnati, Sacramento, and, in last place, Newark, N.J. • Atlanta's lowest grade was a 'B' for the quality and availability of its small business training and networking programs. “It is critical to the economic health of every city and state to create an entrepreneur-friendly environment,” said Dane Stangler, director of Research and Policy at the Kauffman Foundation. “Policymakers put themselves in the best position to encourage sustainable growth and long-term prosperity by listening to the voices of small business owners themselves.”
families have far outpaced Black and Hispanic ones. Before the recession, White families, on average, were about four times as wealthy as non-White families, according to the Urban Institute’s analysis of Federal Reserve data. By 2010, Whites were about six times as wealthy. The dollar value of that gap has grown, as well. By the most recent data, the average White family had about $632,000 in wealth, versus $98,000 for Black families and $110,000 for Hispanic families. “The racial wealth gap is deeply rooted in our society,” said Caroline Ratcliffe, one of the authors of the Urban Institute study. “It’s here, it’s not going away, and we need to care about it.” Many experts consider the wealth gap to be more pernicious than the income gap, as it perpetuates from generation to generation and has a powerful effect on economic security and mobility. Young Black people are much less likely than young White people to receive a large sum from their parents or other relatives to pay for college, start a business or make a down payment on a home, for instance. That, in turn, makes their wealth-building prospects shakier as they move into adulthood.
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By CHARlotte Roy ADW Managing Editor The Sister Gospels, the first published novel of Vera Jennings, was 10 years in the making. It is a faith-based story depicting the intertwining lives of four close-knit African-American sisters as each embarks on her own tumultuous path to growth and self-discovery. A tragic loss, a doomed relationship, substance abuse and adjusting to life after divorce are the trials that test the sisters’ strength of character as they draw closer to God and one another. The genre for The Sister Gospels can be summed up as urban, Christian fiction romance, which engages female readers in particular. However, the book also features secular themes and prominent male characters that create universal appeal and offers a compelling slice-of-life human drama. Though most of the main characters are African American, with several having a personal relationship with Christ, it is a story everyone can relate to. The Sister Gospels is already enjoying rave reviews on
‘the Sister Gospels’ offer Comfort Food for the Mind And Spirit
Amazon.com. “Engrossing. This book kept me interested from start to finish, and I truly enjoyed how each story was connected but also stood on its own,” was Sharon Valentine’s comment. “Powerfully good. I really did enjoy this book. It touched a spot in my heart. I had to bring out the Kleenex,” wrote Kendra Cheatham. The author’s objective was to foster introspection, she says. “It was written with the intention to inspire and stir the soul of the reader. I hope readers will find strong and engaging characters and that the exploits of the four sisters will entertain them.” Vera Jennings was born and raised in Chicago, the third of six children. She has previously had two short stories published and has written another faith-based novel titled The Way of a Heart, which is slated for future publication. Jennings now calls southeastern Wisconsin home, where she lives with her husband, Fred. For more information on this creative writer, visit her website VERA JENNINGS at: www.firstratefiction.com.
PRAISE
Book Studies Relevance of Bible Commands
By ADW Staff In this timeless book, What’s on God’s Sin List for Today, author Tom Hobson digs deep into scripture in order to answer the question that many Christians ask: Which of the Biblical commands are still relevant? “Christians get confused about exactly what to do with the commands in the Bible,” says Hobson. “Do we need to give up pork and shellfish? Is it a sin to eat road-kill or to eat blood sausage? Is it a sin to wear mixed fabric? Is cross-dressing a crime? What about tattoos? What do we do with that command not to boil a baby goat in its mother’s milk?” And if none of these commands are for Christians today, then which Bible commands are? The author examines the laws in the Old Testament and the New Testament sin lists, and how they speak to issues such as sex, alcohol and drugs, obscene language and gambling as they existed in the first-century world in order to suggest what’s on God’s sin list today. “ This is a biblical study of sin in the Old and New Testament in their respective historical contexts with an evaluation of their ancient meanings as well as their current relevance today. It is not intended for legalists, or antinomians, but for those who want to deepen their understanding of the conflict between Judeo-Christian ethical norms and pagan practices,” Hobson notes. Tom Hobson has been a pastor in the Presbyterian Church since 1983. He is currently chairman of the Biblical Studies Department at Morthland College in West Frankfort, Ill.
May 9 - 15, 2013
NATIONAL CENTER FOR CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE ATLANTA BRAVES PRESENT
CHAMPIONS FOR JUSTICE LUNCHEON
IN CONJUNCTION WITH ATLANTA BRAVES HERITAGE WEEKEND MAY 31, 2013 AT 11:30 AM 755 CLUB AT TURNER FIELD $100 - LUNCHEON TICKETS $250 - LUNCHEON TICKETS AND TICKETS TO THE ATLANTA BRAVES HERTIAGE GAME VS THE NATIONALS
SPECIAL GUEST HANK AARON WILL PRESENT THE 2013 HANK AARON CHAMPIONS FOR JUSTICE AWARD TO SENATOR LEROY JOHNSON AND AMBASSADOR ANDREW YOUNG
Purchase Tickets at http://bit.ly/bravesluncheon
Tickets are tax-deductible, and all proceeds benefit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. For additional information call 404-991-6970
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Alexandra Jackson to Perform at Atlanta Jazz Festival
By ADW Staff Renowned singer, composer and arranger Alexandra Jackson will perform at the 36th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival (main stage) at 5 p.m., on Sunday, May 26, at Piedmont Park. Jackson is an Atlanta native and youngest daughter of Atlanta’s first African-American mayor, Maynard Jackson, who founded the Atlanta Jazz Festival 36 years ago. She will perform her new album “From The Start,” a jazz compilation of innovative tunes that represent the songstress’s understanding of traditional jazz music. An in-demand vocalist, she has performed at various international and national jazz festivals, including the acclaimed Montreux Jazz Festival. She has worked with musical pioneers such as Wynton Marsalis at Lincoln Center for the Essentially Ellington concert series and recorded with guitarist Al McKay from Earth, Wind & Fire. Jackson was inspired to expand her musical journey through the release of her new Jazz EP “From The Start.” Considered a traditional and contemporary studio compilation,
this album gives music enthusiasts the opportunity to experience Jackson’s vocal range through a diverse mixture of harmonic tones. An ode to Sarah Vaughan, Jackson’s leading single “I Didn’t Know What Time It Was,” captures rhythmic melodies, up-tempo pulsations and her signature syncopated tones. Now living in Los Angeles, Jackson was able to return to her roots in Atlanta to record the album, "From The Start," which is a sentimental album for her. “Jazz became a large part of my life when I was younger. So I chose to return to my high school (The Lovett School) to
ENTERTAINMENT
May 9 - 15, 2013
Rob Jackson Presents ‘Rebirth! the Musical’
Special to ADW Rob Jackson Presents has announced the world premiere of the company’s newest musical stage play, “Rebirth! The Musical,” to be performed on May 30 at the Fox Theater. The show stars Thomas Miles (Nephew Tommy from the Steve Harvey Morning Show); Lynn Whitfield of stage, screen and television; Quinnes "Q" Parker of the R&B group 112; and contemporary R&B singer Algebra. “Rebirth!” is a compelling story of faith that will uplift your spirits, refresh your relationships, and strengthen your conviction in freedom of choice,” said Jackson who is the producer, writer and director of the play. The play is set in the year 2156, in a post-apocalyptic California town called Bethel. The people toil under the oppressive leadership of a mysterious entity called, “Mia, the Mother of Earth.” A young man, Jonathan, receives an ancient book on his birthday, which inspires him to spread the good news of true faith to anyone who will listen. Now the people must choose between defying death to follow the music in their hearts that Jonathan’s message has inspired or continue blindly following Mia, who is clearly not what she seems.
record my first jazz album,” she says. “I thought it would be fitting for this project to be around the people who helped influence me musically at a young age; and then to record it with some of the incredible musicians with whom I had played for years.” The album features musicians Geoffrey Haydon on piano, Moffett Morris on bass, Dave Frackenpohl on guitar, and Joel Morris on drums. This year the Atlanta Jazz Festival will focus on “Generation Next,” highlighting the next era of future jazz stars, including Jackson, Meshell Ndegeocello, Jose James, Jacob Deaton, Julie Dexter, Gretchen Parlato, and many others. Jackson will grace the stage with fellow musicians from Atlanta, as part of her quartet including Che Marshall on drums, Craig Shaw on bass and Gary Motley on piano. For more information about Jackson’s performance at the Atlanta Jazz Festival, visit www.atlantafestivals.com.
LYNN WHITFIELD
NEPHEW TOMMY
“We hope everyone will join us for Rebirth!,” Jackson said. “It’s an uplifting musical experience for the entire family.” Rebirth! will run from May 30 to June 2. Tickets are on sale through the Fox Theater.
MARtA Jazzes up Mondays with live Music in Stations
Move to the groove with MARTA Jazz Mondays featuring free live music at a new station each Monday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. through May. As part of the Atlanta Jazz Festival’s 31 Days of Jazz, MARTA, in partnership with the City of Atlanta, is offering customers the opportunity to enjoy great jazz performances and spin the MARTA prize wheel for a chance to win a Breeze card. MARTA will give riders a preview of the upcoming Atlanta Jazz Festival in Piedmont
Park which kicks off on May 25. For more information about MARTA Jazz Mondays, visit www.itsmarta.com or call 404-848-5000.
Written Wine and Words® with editor Gil Robertson
The historic Hammonds House Museum is the venue for a conversation with Where Did Our Love Go anthology editor Gil Robertson on Tuesday, May 14, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The book is a compilation of essays from a variety of well-known people speaking on their
experience with love. Robertson and contributors to this groundbreaking work on African-American relationships will discuss the essays. Light refreshments will be served. Hammonds House is located at 503 Peeples Street, SW, Atlanta, GA 30331.
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‘the Watsons Go to Birmingham’ Wraps Filming Here
By M. AlexiS SCott www.adwnews.com
ENTERTAINMENT
May 9 - 15, 2013
Bernice King (second from left) stands with actors Anika Noni Rose, La Tanya Richardson and ADW Publisher M. Alexis Scott on the movie set in Stone Mountain.
“The Watsons Go to Birmingham,” a movie adaptation from the award-winning book by Christopher Paul Curtis, just wrapped up production here in the Atlanta area. The film, set in 1963, was directed by Atlanta’s own Kenny Leon, founder of True Colors Theatre Company. During the final days of filming last week, visitors to the set had a chance to learn about the movie that invokes one of the Civil Rights Movement’s most tragic moments: the bombing death of four little girls at the 16th Street Baptist Church. The film stars Anika Noni Rose, LaTanya Richardson and Wood Harris as members of an “All American Family” who are transformed by their road trip from their home in Michigan to visit relatives in Alabama. Written by Tonya Lewis Lee, who serves as co-executive producer with Nikki Silver, the film will be part of the Walden Family Theater, a
Photo By Brian McKissick
Special Photo Storyboard artist Brian McKissick stands in front of one of the other stars of “The Watsons Go to Birmingham” – the 1948 Plymouth “Brown Bomber.”
new series of family movies created by Walmart, P&G, Walden Media and ARC Entertainment. During media and guest day on the movie set at a house near the Stone Mountain Women’s Club, Randy Michael Testa, vice president of education and professional development for Walden Media, talked about the importance of a movie like “Watsons.” “This is an opportunity to teach young people about the Civil Rights Movement in a way that is more accessible than reading about it in a text book,” Testa said. “We are committed to family entertainment with a message.” Testa said he and Walden also are working with The Southern Poverty Law Center in Alabama to adapt their curriculum on teaching about the Civil Rights Movement in conjunction with the Watsons’ movie. This will help school teachers use the film to teach about the Civil Rights Movement, he said. The educational materials will be loaded on the Walden Media website, including some of the movie’s storyboards by Brian McKissick, Testa said. “This will help teachers show students that you have to imagine things before you can do them,” he said. Without giving the whole movie away for those who have not read the book, here’s what the press release says: “So the Watsons load up Photo By M. Alexis Scott the 1948 Plymouth Brown Bernice King (second from right), CEO of The King Center and daughter of Bomber outfitted with a true Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, visits the set of “The Watsons tone Ultra-Glide turntable and Go to Birmingham” with co-producers Nikki Silver (left) and Tonya Lewis head South with plenty of Lee (right) and Walden Media Founder and President Micheal Flaherty. comedy en route. When they
finally make it to Birmingham, they meet Grandma Sands and her friend, Mr. Robert (David Alan Grier), who show them around town and the Watsons discover that life is very different there than in Flint – and not necessarily for the better.” Tonya Lee, wife of filmmaker Spike Lee, said she was invited to come on board for the movie by her co-executive producer Nikki Silver. “I was familiar with the book because my child read it in school,” she said. “I thought this would be a great project to bring to the screen.” This is her first time producing, and she said she is excited about the opportunity. Also visiting the set were Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, and King lieutenant the Rev. C.T. Vivian. The Watsons’ book received the Newberry and Coretta Scott King awards. Director Leon, known for his support of projects with a message, is directing a feature-length film for a third time. His other TV film projects include “A Raisin in the Sun” and “Steele Magnolias.” Watsons is scheduled to be telecast on the Hallmark Channel on Sept. 20 at 8 p.m.
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Photo By M. Alexis Scott Randy Michael Testa, vice president of education and professional development for Walden Media, stands on the movie set with Bernice King, CEO of The King Center and daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.
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By oSCAR C. WooDAll JR. HayWood Media After Sports Illustrated published Jason Collins’ gay proclamation, President Barack Obama called him, expressing gratitude and support. He also told Collins that he was impressed by his courage. “Whether it’s a free country or not, you should be free to act and do as you want to do, as long as it’s not violent,” said the L.A. Lakers’ Metta World Peace, regarding Collins. Collins, a 34-year-old journeyman center is the first and only openly gay male athlete to be currently playing in one of five major U.S. team sports. The announcement shocked Collins’ ex-fiancee, Carolyn Moos, according to tmz.com. The website said the 7’0, 255 lb., center dated the former WNBA player eight years, and they were engaged before he ended the relationship in 2009. Moos told tmz.com she never suspected Collins was gay, and found out when Collins revealed his secret, telling her his sexuality caused their break up. “It's very emotional for me as a woman to have invested eight years in my dream to have a husband, soul mate, and best friend in him,” Moos told tmz.com. “Collins is ‘out’ at a time when society is more open to people being gays,” says HayWood Media’s basketball analyst Hugh Hayes. “I don’t see his revelation as a hindrance to
they’re Here, they’re Gay, So let them Play!
JASON COLLINS
SPORTS
May 9 - 15, 2013
Former Coach opens Georgia Prep Sports Academy in Atlanta
By DeitRA P. JoHnSon ADW Staff Writer The new Georgia Prep Sports Academy (GPSA) is officially on the map in Atlanta. GPSA held its first Open House on May 4 and 26 post-graduate athletes and their parents toured the facilities located at 444 Highland Ave. in northeast Atlanta. GPSA, a bridge between high school and college, was the brainchild of Michael Carson, former football coach and educator in DeKalb County. GPSA holds a non-profit status, and will soon open its doors to its first class of student-athletes with a simple mission – to provide a platform for studentathletes to get on track academically in order to obtain scholarship dollars for higher education. “I was motivated to start Georgia Prep based on my experience as a high school educator for 17 years, and dealing with kids every year who were not getting the opportunity to access scholarship funds on the next level,” Carson said. “Basically it is an academic problem…not having the minimum academic requirements to get into a college with their SAT and ACT test scores, primary course load and GPA requirements. “I resigned my position on Aug. 30, 2012, and started GPSA the next day,” Carson continued. The school not only recruited student-athletes from all over the Southeast to play for its inaugural 2013 season by aggressively reaching out to coaches all over the region, but has also recruited the services of Kaplan, the Phoenix Group and National High School to assist in focusing on any deficiencies the students may have. “We’ve come to the point where a high school diploma is not enough, particularly with our Black males. It’s a must for us to get to college and hopefully get a college degree for the playing field to be level for us,” Carson continued. Starting the new school meant cashing in his retirement to cover start-up costs. Carson is not only the architect and builder of Georgia Prep Sports Academy, but doubles as the program’s first head football coach. He is now
signing with the Wizards, or any NBA team.” Teams and businesses may exploit the free agent, and his revelation, as a marketing tool to reach more lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people -- because it’s good business. But for the revelation Collins could be blackballed, seen as a possible distraction on and off the court. Collins may become a poster child, applauded by LGBTs, shunned by the religious right, who may find him morally bankrupt.” On ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” Chris Broussard said, as a Christian, he abhors homosexuality. “If you're openly living in unrepentant sin ... that's walking in open rebellion to God and to Jesus Christ,” said ESPN’s basketball analyst. But, for NBA teams, what should matter is Collins’ ability to help win a championship. Though they aren’t gay, remember when first we saw “Magic” Johnson and “Zeke” Thomas kiss before a game? We got over that to where it didn’t matter, because they were ballers, winning championships. Like it or not, we’ll get over the fact that the LGBT community has infiltrated MLB, MLS, NBA, NFL and NHL locker-rooms for the same reason.
seeking additional funding from individuals and agencies who share in his commitment to youth development and athletics. The Buford native and former head coach at Avondale and Martin Luther King Jr. high schools resigned from high school coaching after being accused of “sexting” an adult female who complained to the school. With that embarrassment behind him, the award-winning coach will soon see his new vision become reality this fall when his Lions take the field for the first time. The football program has a viable schedule, opening with LaGrange College on Aug. 25. GPSA looks to add additional programs like basketball and volleyball in the near future. For more information, visit the following website: www.atlantaprepsportsacademy.org or call 678-663-7514.
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CLASSIFIED
BIDS AND PROPOSALS
REQUEST FOR SEALED BID REC-050913-GCO ADVERTISEMENT for GOLF COURSE OPERATOR The City of College Park is accepting Sealed Bids from qualified vendors for COLLEGE PARK GOLF COURSE OPERATOR. Sealed proposals will be received no later than 10:00am, Thursday, May 9, 2013 at the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park Georgia, 30337, at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids received after the above date and time, or in any other location other than the Purchasing Department will not be considered. A bid packet may be obtained from the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park, Georgia 30337, or from www.collegeparkga.com. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 10:00am, April 18, 2013 at the City of College Park City Hall. Questions arising AFTER the Pre-Bid Meeting will be accepted via email ONLY to bgregory@collegeparkga.com until COB April 23. An Addendum with all Q&A will be posted to the City’s website on or about COB Friday, April 26. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any/all addenda. The City of College Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids based on past performance and to waive technicalities and informalities and re-advertise. All Minority, Woman and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Only responsive proposals that are determined to meet the requirements and criteria set forth by the City of College Park will be considered. _______________________________________________ Mr Gallokho african psychic solves your issues bring back love ones business success court issues luck black magic&voodoo spell evil&more quick results call 6788873927 _______________________________________________ Notice of Incorporation Notice is given that Articles of Incorporation which will incorporate “DENIM GARAGE, Incorporated, INCORPORATED,” will be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing in accordance with the Georgia Nonprofit Corporation Code (O.C.G.A. $14-3-202). The initial registered office of the corporation will be located at 2916 Brookfield Lane SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30331 and its initial reigstered agent at such address is JOSHUA C. LEWIS _______________________________________________ NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA MECKLENBURG COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION Nicole Bethea v. Nyshonda Kinder and Tavon Coley 13-CVD-5639(CB) Attention “Tavon Coley”
EMPLOYMENT
BIDS AND PROPOSALS
May 9 - 15, 2013
HOURLY/NON-TECHNICAL (POULTRY PROCESSING POSITIONS) Koch Foods, LLC has employment opportunities in poultry processing (deboning) at their Gainesville and Cumming, Georgia deboning facilities. Positions are full time/shift work. Experience preferred but not required. Competitive pay/benefit programs, including health, dental, 401-k. Apply in person for Gainesville positions at 950 Industrial Blvd., Gainesville, GA 30501, Wednesdays only, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM or for Cumming positions at 221 Meadow Dr., Cumming, GA 30040, Wednesdays only, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. EEO M/V/F/D. _______________________________________________ Attorney, Korean Practice Team, Atlanta, GA: JD Degree and GA license req’d; must have 1 yr. exp. inint’l business transactions at Asia-based multinational corporations. Send resume to Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP, 201 17th St., Ste. 1700, Atlanta, GA 30363. _______________________________________________ Master Teacher – Sci&Tech: Fernbank Elementary Foundation in Atlanta, GA: Dev. & lead schoolwide sci&tech instr prog for K-5 science curriculum. Req Master’s or foreign equ.in Edu/Sci/Pol, Soc, or Cult Studies /rel & 2 yrs elem sch teaching exp. In lieu of Master’s or foreign equ.in Edu/Sci/Pol, Soc, or Cult Studies /rel & 2 yrs elem sch teaching exp will acc Bach or foreign equ in Edu/Sci/Pol, Soc, or Cult Studies /rel & 5 yrs prog post-bacc elem sch teaching exp. Also req 1 yr exp integrating Promethean Int Whiteboard technology AND following skills through edu or work exp: coord/manage after-school sci activities/clubs; grant writing AND GA certification. All exp may or may not be acq concurrently. To apply, cont Drew Schuler, schuleram@bellsouth.net or 157 Heaton Park Dr. Atlanta, GA, 30307. _______________________________________________ RFP/Part-time Grants Administrator Go to www.afcra.com _______________________________________________ TIBCO Software Inc. has an opening in Atlanta, GA for a Principal Consultant (Software Engineer) to deliver system architecture & hardware/software specification consulting project activities. Must have unrestricted U.S. work authorization. Mail resumes to Att: D. Dzapo, HR, Ref#AGA3, 3307 Hillview Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94304. _______________________________________________ Cooper Green Mercy Health Services Birmingham, AL NOW HIRING Internal Medicine/Family Practice Physician Excellent opportunity to work in a developing multi-speciality medical practice located in the city’s expanding medical and research community. The successful candidate will be joining an organization that is supported by one of the most outstanding clinical sub-speciality groups in America. This position is a part-time contract position for physician services for an out-patient clinic, no hospital coverage, no on-call, no weekends, no site rotation, no evenings and no holidays. Must have M.D. or D.O., completion of U.S. Residency Program and Board Certified or Board eligible. Three years practicing medicine preferred. If interested, e-mail resume to jccjobs@jccal.org and include on the subject line, “Physician Resume”.
REQUEST FOR SEALED BIDS FIRE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATION UNIFORMS BID #FD-060613-ADMIN UNIF ADVERTISEMENT for FIRE DEPARTMENT UNIFORMS The City of College Park is accepting Sealed Bids from qualified vendors for FIRE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATION UNIFORMS. Sealed proposals will be received no later than 2:00 pm, June 6, 2013 at the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park Georgia, 30337 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids received after the above date and time, or in any other location other than the Purchasing Department will not be considered. A bid packet may be obtained from the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park, Georgia 30337, or from www.collegeparkga.com. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 9:30am, Thursday, May 16 at the City of College Park City Hall. Questions arising AFTER the Pre-Bid Meeting will be accepted via email ONLY to bgregory@collegeparkga.com until COB Thursday, May 23. An Addendum with all Q&A will be posted to the City’s website on or about COB Thursday, May 30. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any/all addenda. The City of College Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids based on past performance and to waive technicalities and informalities, to ignore small price differences when there is a rational benefit to the City, and re-advertise. All Minority, Woman and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Only responsive proposals that are determined to meet the requirements and criteria set forth by the City of College Park will be considered. _______________________________________________ REQUEST FOR SEALED BIDS FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS UNIFORMS BID #FD-060613-OPS UNIF ADVERTISEMENT for FIRE DEPARTMENT UNIFORMS The City of College Park is accepting Sealed Bids from qualified vendors for FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS UNIFORMS. Sealed proposals will be received no later than 3:00 pm, June 6, 2013 at the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park Georgia, 30337 at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids received after the above date and time, or in any other location other than the Purchasing Department will not be considered. A bid packet may be obtained from the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park, Georgia 30337, or from www.collegeparkga.com. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 10:30am, Thursday, May 16 at the City of College Park City Hall. Questions arising AFTER the Pre-Bid Meeting will be accepted via email ONLY to bgregory@collegeparkga.com until COB Thursday, May 23. An Addendum with all Q&A will be posted to the City’s website on or about COB Thursday, May 30. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any/all addenda. The City of College Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids based on past performance and to waive technicalities and informalities, to ignore small price differences when there is a rational benefit to the City, and re-advertise. All Minority, Woman and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Only responsive proposals that are determined to meet the requirements and criteria set forth by the City of College Park will be considered.
BIDS AND PROPOSALS
REQUEST FOR SEALED BID REC-051613-PLE ADVERTISEMENT for PARKING LOT EXPANSION DESIGN for BILL BADGETT STADIUM The City of College Park is accepting Sealed Bids from qualified vendors for PARKING LOT EXPANSION DESIGN for BILL BADGETT STADIUM. Sealed proposals will be received no later than 10:00am, Thursday, May 16, 2013 at the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park Georgia, 30337, at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Bids received after the above date and time, or in any other location other than the Purchasing Department will not be considered. A bid packet may be obtained from the City of College Park Purchasing Department, 3667 Main Street, College Park, Georgia 30337, or from www.collegeparkga.com. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at 10:00am, Monday, April 22, 2013 at the City of College Park City Hall. Questions arising AFTER the Pre-Bid Meeting will be accepted via email ONLY to bgregory@collegeparkga.com until COB April 26. An Addendum with all Q&A will be posted to the City’s website on or about COB Wednesday, May 1. It is always the vendor’s responsibility to check the City’s website for any/all addenda. The City of College Park reserves the right to reject any or all bids based on past performance and to waive technicalities and informalities and re-advertise. All Minority, Woman and Small Businesses are strongly encouraged to apply. Only responsive proposals that are determined to meet the requirements and criteria set forth by the City of College Park will be considered.
Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Permanent custody of the minor child born to Nyshonda Kinder and Tavon Coley in Mecklenburg County, NC on February 28, 2010. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than June 17, 2013 and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought. This, the 8th day of May, 2013 Cory A. Williams, Attorney Family Law Facilitator 130 N. McDowell St., Suite D Charlotte, NC 28204 _______________________________________________
FOR RENT
Apt for Rent Southwest near Marta. 1 Bdrm; 1 1/2 Baths; Den; furnished Kitchen and Sunroom. $450 @ month + deposit. Call 404-691-5656 . _______________________________________________ Property For Sale – 1921 Cummings Dr. S.W., Atlanta 30311 Contact trustee 404-353-6222. Best Offer/Highest Bidder Contact: Barbara Cullings P.O. Box 5043 Atlanta, GA 30302 (404) 353-6222
ATLANTA DAILY WORLD
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS
BY JULIANNE MALVEAUX
VIEWPOINTS
KEEPING TRACK
BY CHERYL P. MCNEIL
May 9 - 15, 2013
The Senate’s Gang of Eight has put together an 844-page monstrosity known as the Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act, legislation that President Obama says he “basically approves” of. The crafters of this essentially unreadable bill was put together by Sens. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Michael Bennett (D-Col.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Lindsay Graham (R-S.C.). On its surface, the bill provides much-needed relief to many of the 11 million undocumented people who live in our country. The challenge is that it disadvantages some immigrants, especially African and Caribbean immigrants, while helping others. Further, the senators crafting the bill put goodies into the bill that only serve to advantage themselves or their states. Sen. Lindsay Graham wants more visas for the meat packing industry. Sen. Charles Schumer provided special provisions for Irish people with a high school diploma (why?), Sen. Marco Rubio, the much touted possible presidential candidate in 2016, asked for more visas for the cruise ship industry, and Sen. Michael Bennett wants more visas for workers in ski resorts. Meanwhile, the legislation would eliminate the Diversity Visa Program, which allows a visa lottery for countries that have low levels (less than 50,000 people) of immigration to the United States. Many African immigrants come here through this program (Ghana and Nigeria each had 6,000 immigrants through this program in 2011; African immigrants are 36 percent of those receiving diversity visas). Thus, while Sen. Schumer pushes for special provisions for Irish immigrants, there is no one on the Senate side pushing for special provisions for African and Caribbean immigrants. Instead of the Diversity Visa Program, the Senate Bill 744 creates between 120,000 and 200,000 visas on a “merit based” system, which gives highest priority to those who have future employment opportunities. Because employers do not seek out African and Caribbean immigrants for employees (as they seek out Indian and Chinese employees), the merit-based point system is likely to provide fewer opportunities for those from Africa and the Caribbean. Sen. Schumer’s special provision for the Irish carries no stipulation that these people be employed, essentially granting them a pass from the merit-based point system. Many hi-tech companies use the H-1B visa program on the grounds that there is a shortage of skilled workers in the United States. There is evidence that this claim is specious and that employers prefer foreign workers who they can pay less and control more. The new legislation will prevent employers from holding workers hostage because their continuing employment is necessary in order to keep their visa. The new legislation gives H-1B 60 days to find a new job. But why do we have H-1B visas at all. With unemployment over 7 percent, and Black unemployment over 13 percent, surely there are unemployed people who could work effectively in technology companies. Howard University economist Bill Sprigs has written that there are proportionately more African American students majoring in computer science than White. Many of these graduates cannot find jobs. Meanwhile, African and Caribbean immigrants get just a small percentage of H-1B visas. The Immigration Modernization bill will spend $4.5 billion in an attempt to secure the southern border, which will “secure” our country from Mexican immigrants, but ignores the northern border, which makes our country more open to Canadian immigration. Of course, Canadian immigrants are more likely to be White, and thus less feared, than Mexican immigrants. The Congressional Black Caucus is one of many groups that suggest that this $4.5 billion could be more effectively spent, perhaps on STEM education. The immigration bill is by no means final. The House of Representatives still has to vote on it, and many of them will add amendments and exceptions to take care of their “pet” causes. Meanwhile, President Obama has been urging Democrats to accept the immigration bill as it is, because too many amendments may jeopardize the bill. For example, Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) would like to propose an amendment that would allow gay Americans to sponsor their partners for green cards. The Judiciary Committee is likely to pass this amendment, but the whole Senate might not pass it. President Obama has had a bad year, so far. He didn’t get his way on gun control, and he’s been kicked around by an obstructionist House of Representatives. He needs immigration reform to fulfill promises he made to the Latino community during his campaign. But the unwieldy 844-page piece of legislation contains lots of provisions that don’t pass the smell test. It makes it more difficult for African and Caribbean immigrants to become citizens of the United States. Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer. She is president emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.
Blacks under Represented in immigration Debate
Consumer Power Has no Age limit
I believe our future is in good hands, despite what recent news headlines would have us otherwise believe. You are as familiar as I am with the barrage of negative stories of violence, drugs, teen pregnancy, bullying and other questionable behaviors of today’s youth. No matter where you live in the country, I’ll bet there are legions more of good kids in your city or town who are shining in every area of their lives, excelling in school, giving back in ways both small and large to their communities, sports and other extracurricular activities. In the spirit of full disclosure, I claim my bragging rights as the mother of one of these outstanding young people, my 16-year-old son. I always talk about how this nation is becoming more and more multicultural day by day. In fact, in eight years, there will be 170 million multicultural consumers in the United States. This nation is a huge melting pot already, but these forecasted numbers are promising for people of color – especially young people. According to the most recent U.S. Census, African Americans, Hispanics and Asians each make up 42 percent of the youngest demographic age groups: 12-17, 18-24 and 25-34. These same groups of young folks are going to be in our shoes as adults in a few decades and their numbers are on the rise. The 18 to 24 year-old demographic is, in fact, growing faster than any other segment. Businesses and advertisers are paying very close attention to the information I’m sharing with you today. All of us know by now how critical everything we purchase, watch, read and listen to is for manufacturers and marketers. The same is true for young people. What are their consumer behaviors? How much are they contributing or will they contribute in the future to the consumer bottom-line? Nielsen research shows that teens have some real purchasing potential – although at this point, that potential has a lot to do with the earnings of their parents, grandparents or guardians, since most kids are not yet making the big bucks. Last year, 29 percent of teens in the U.S. lived in households earning more than $100K. And if you are the parent of teenager(s), you know they are very good at spending our money. Can I get an ‘AMEN’ on that? I’m sure it comes as no surprise that ownership of smartphones and tablets is growing faster in households with teenagers. There was a 45 percent jump in smartphone penetration among teens between 2011 and 2012, a 32 percent increase among young adults 18-24 and 22 percent among those 25-34. The numbers for laptop penetration are interesting. It seems laptops are cool with young people until they hit their late 20s – even though laptop ownership has increased in all three young adult age groups (12-17, 18-24, 25-34) over the last year. We talk a lot in this column about how much time all of us spend in front of the television or watching our video content on one of the many other fun electronic toys we own. That time spent is money – both for the marketers who want to reach us and the program providers who measure and make decisions based on our viewing habits. Teens and young adults, like the rest of us, watch most of their shows and videos the old school way – on television. However, according to Nielsen’s most recent Cross-Platform Report, young consumers under 34 watched more video on the Internet and their mobile devices in 2012 than they did in 2011. The “under 34” crowd isn’t a monolithic group, though, when it comes to video consumption. Young teenagers lead in watching content on their mobile phones (I can attest to this); 18 percent more than those 18-24 and 46 percent more than the next age group, 25-35. On the other hand, teens don’t seem to favor watching online, even though laptop ownership is higher in that group. The data shows that in the last quarter of 2012, those in the 18-24 age bracket spent nearly three times more consuming video on the Internet than 12 to 17-year-olds. The “oldest” of the young demos, the 25 to 34-year-olds, spent the most total time watching video across all platforms in 2012: 19 hours and 30 minutes more per month than 18 to24-year-olds and 40 hours and 54 minutes more a month than 12 to17-year-old consumers. Whenever I speak to youth groups, I always let them how much of the sweet target they are to marketers. And I think the information I just shared supports this statement. The youth of today should feel empowered, too. Because not only are they the future, they are the present and marketers are watching. Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of Public Affairs and Government relations for Nielsen. For more information and studies go to www.nielsenwire.com.
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Founded August 5, 1928; Became Daily, March 12, 1932 W.A. Scott, II, Founder/Publisher, August 5, 1928 To February 7, 1934 C.A. Scott, Publisher February 7, 1934 to July 26, 1997 M. Alexis Scott, Publisher July 26, 1997 to Present Published every Thursday at N. Desert Drive, Suite 2 109A, Atlanta, Georgia 30344.
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By KiA SMitH inside Spelman, Special to ADW Kristie and Kirstie Bronner, C’2013, have always done everything together — from dressing alike in elementary school to double dating in high school. On May 19, the music majors from Atlanta will graduate from Spelman College as co-valedictorians with perfect 4.0 GPAs. “I definitely do not feel like I came to school perfect,” said Kirstie. “I always felt like a 4.0 student was a genius, and I didn’t think that I was a genius. I still don’t think I’m a genius. I’m a person who prays hard and works hard. That’s it.” Extremely disciplined from high school, the Bronners found themselves spending the majority of their time studying during the early part of their Spelman career. They soon realized all of their studying was causing them to burn out. “We were sick all the time because our immune system was so weak due to the stress,” said Kristie. “Then, we realized we had to enjoy the journey. You can’t be so focused on the destination that you don’t live day-to-day. We were living looking forward to all the breaks. Every morning we were like, ‘Christmas break is a coming. Christmas break is a coming.’ And then after Christmas it was, ‘Oh, Lord. OK, summer break is a coming. Summer break is a coming.’ It may sound like exaggeration, but that’s what we did.” To create balance in their life, Kristie and Kirstie began scheduling time to hang out with
twin Spelman Valedictorians Achieve Success with Balance
FEATURES
May 9 - 15, 2013
friends and go to the movies on the weekend. This change helped them to stop looking forward to breaks and begin enjoying their college experience. “Every semester became more enjoyable, more manageable, more balanced and we became healthier,” explained Kristie. While at Spelman, Kristie and Kirstie were active members of the Spelman College Glee Club. Kristie served as Glee Club chaplain and Soprano 2 section leader while Kirstie served as student conductor and Alto 1 and Alto 2 section leader. They also studied abroad in Italy and volunteered for community service projects sponsored by the college. While Kristie and Kirstie have found inspiration in a number of the courses, they credit Juanchella G. Francis, Ph.D., psychology lecturer, with having a significant impact
Kristie and Kirstie with their parents, the Revs. Nina and Dale Bronner.
on the women they are becoming. “She has been an extremely impactful teacher and goes so far beyond academics,” Kirstie said. “She’s a perfect balance of a teacher who cares about their students and wants them to succeed and one who operates in excellence and professionalism.” “Kirstie and Kristie were two of my top performing students and an absolute joy to teach,” said Dr. Francis. “As God-fearing young ladies, they are full of joy and spiritually and emotionally mature. I am extremely proud of them and know that they will bless this world!” Upon graduation, Kristie and Kirstie plan to work full-time in ministry. They will work as youth event coordinators at Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral, which is pastored by their father, the Rev. Dale C. Bronner. In this position, they will plan conferences and programming, serve as youth counselors and work with the youth choirs and praise and worship teams. Additionally, the twins plan to author a book, record the contemporary Christian music they’ve been writing, and continue speaking to youth and women at events and conferences. “I definitely believe we will always be in ministry because it’s our passion. We have been doing ministry in some form our whole lives,” said Kirstie. Kristie and Kirstie aren’t the first women in their family to conquer Spelman’s rigorous curriculum. Their mother, the Rev. Nina Cobb Bronner, graduated from Spelman in 1985, their aunt, Sheila Bronner is a member of the Class of 1986, and their grandmother, Dorothy Gibson Cobb, finished in 1956. Their father graduated from Morehouse College in 1984, where he finished as the top student in the field of religion.
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